Computer Repair Nerds On Call

Andrea Eldridge is mom of two, CEO and co-founder of Nerds On Call, an on-site computer and laptop repair service.Andrea is the writer of two columns, Nerd Chick Adventures and Computer Nerds On Call, a nationally syndicate column & author of...

What's the most innovative gadget for children you've seen?

What are your favorite blog posts?

Andrea's Answers

Can you recommend an app that helps you save money?

Loyalty memberships at grocery stores and retail outlets can save you a bundle, but who wants to cart around 23 plastic cards on their key ring, or get their inbox filled up with emails touting the week’s specials? Never fear! First, set up an email address dedicated to your retail excursions – that way you won’t miss out on the exclusive deals and coupons but won’t get inundated in your regular account. Next, check out CardMobili (www.cardmobili.com), an awesome application for your Smartphone that stores your cards and coupons so you simply flash your phone at check out.
Do you have a shop savvy tip that can help us find a great deal? Send us a note on Facebook (facebook.com/nerdsoncall) or e-mail us at nerdchick@callnerds.com.

What's an affordable family summer vacation destination? (please include a link)

Explore Nature
One of our family’s favorite free (except for the gas to get you there) adventures is a day on the lake. Grab your floatie and flippers for the kids, pack a picnic lunch and try to stay cool. Did you know that 264 of your 397 national parks never charge an entrance fee? For those that do, consider visiting on one of their free entrance days you can check it out at the National Park Service dot gov site. Take advantage of the upcoming Free Fishing Days in your state by navigating to takemefishing dot org. California has upcoming dates July 7th and September 8th.

What's your best budget tip for shopping for back-to-school necessities like school supplies, backpacks, uniforms, labels and lunchboxes? Include a link to a photo if you have one!

Back to School Tech Bargains at Your Fingertips
It seems summer gets shorter and shorter every year. How is it that back to school is already here? Whether you’re in the market for a PC, printer or router to get set up for the new academic year, or you’re just poised to take advantage of the season’s sales, you’ll be joining thousands of shoppers buying computers, peripherals and gadgets in the coming weeks. Before you walk into your local electronics store, there are many websites, some that you may have never heard of, that offer great tech bargains.
Newegg:
While the name may be a head scratcher, Newegg.com is one of the largest online retailers specializing in computer parts, networking supplies (like routers and wireless adapters), RAM, and external drives.
and so many more...to read more check out my blog link

Do you try to give back when you declutter? Please share your family traditions for benefitting others.

I am a Nerd Chick, but first and foremost I define myself by one word: Mommy. As a parent of young children, I can’t help but see the world through their eyes. My son celebrates the drive to the park, exclaiming “Look at all the TREES, Mommy! Mommy, there are TEN trees!” I love his pure joy with the world around him, and I would love to preserve that world for his generation and the generations to come. When I look around the house and see the bevy of old techno gadgets, batteries, ink cartridges and electronic toys the kids have outgrown, I wonder: is there a safe way to dispose of these things? We can all help our community by donating, recycling and/or safely disposing of old techno gadgets. I found a few that can help us all
The “Cell Phones for Soldiers” program turns old cell phones into prepaid calling cards for U.S troops stationed overseas. Cards are given to the soldiers’ families to stay in touch with their loved-ones in the field. You can donate any cell phone by visiting http://cellphonesforsoldiers.com and clicking on “Donate a Phone” to get a pre-paid mailing label, or find local drop sites in your area. Before donating your used cell phone, just make sure that your personal data has been removed.
If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop to recycle and donate to help others in your community, you can donate locally to charities like the Salvation Army and Goodwill. Many are considered e-waste certified, so they can properly dispose of any gadgets deemed un-sellable. Proceeds from working gadgets you donate help families in need in your local community, and any donations you make are tax-deductible. Go to www.salvationarmy.org and follow the locations link on the left side of the page, or http://locator.goodwill.org/ to locate a drop-off center near you.

What helps you stay organized? Whether it's a special coupon binder, calendar app or color-coded closet, we want to know all the little tricks and products that help keep your life organized. Please share a photo if you have one.

I love this app/resource Online grocery list management - http://www.grocerywiz.com is great free tool for managing your grocery list. Easily set up an online grocery list management system or save the list of items you buy regularly and print and keep on the fridge so you just have to highlight or mark the item you need. Never forget milk again!